Pastor Rick Warren reports that his son Matthew, 27, has committed suicide after a long battle with mental illness.  The WaPo reports, quoting Pastor Rick:

“Unfortunately, he also suffered from mental illness resulting in deep depression and suicidal thoughts. Despite the best health care available, this was an illness that was never fully controlled and the emotional pain resulted in his decision to take his life.”

Warren, the author of the multimillion-selling book “The Purpose Driven Life,” said in an email to church staff that he and his wife had enjoyed a fun Friday evening with their son before Matthew Warren returned home to take his life in “a momentary wave of despair.”

Church spokeswoman Kristin Cole said he died Friday night.

Over the years, Matthew Warren had been treated by America s best doctors, had received counseling and medication and been the recipient of numerous prayers from others, his father said.

Lord, have mercy on that poor man and his mother and father and family. I can’t imagine anything worse for a family to go through than this. I really do believe that God has a special mercy for those who suffer from mental illness and depression, and can’t hold on. No family is safe from the noonday demon.